{"title":"Spellbound","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"spellbound-petite-sirah-750ml","title":"Spellbound Petite Sirah","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpellbound Petite Sirah\u003c\/strong\u003e is a rich, full-bodied California red wine bottled at 13.5% ABV in a standard 750ml format. It earned 91 points from Tasting Panel magazine (September 2024) and a 90-point Best Buy designation from Wine Enthusiast (December 2024), affirming its reputation as one of the strongest values in California Petite Sirah.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 13.5%  |  Origin: California, USA  |  Varietal: Petite Sirah  |  Producer: Folio Fine Wine Partners\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSpellbound falls under Folio Fine Wine Partners, led by Robert Mondavi Jr. as President of Winemaking and Partner. The wine is sourced from California vineyards and aged in American oak, which contributes vanilla and toast notes to the finished product. The winemaking team focuses specifically on managing the naturally high tannins inherent to the Petite Sirah grape, a variety known for its bold structure and medium-bright acidity. The result is a wine that retains the varietal's signature dark, concentrated character while remaining approachable and juicy on the palate.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with intense blackberry and blueberry preserves, followed by fresh-cut flowers and dried floral notes. Underneath, subtle layers of vanilla bean, roasted coffee, and a touch of toast emerge as the wine opens up.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is concentrated and fruit-forward, with black currant jam and black plum dominating the initial impression. The mid-palate reveals pink peppercorn, nutmeg, and an unexpected herbal lift that adds complexity. Grilled orange slices and raspberry round out the peak, keeping the wine vibrant rather than heavy.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is dry yet juicy, with firm tannins providing structure without astringency. Lingering notes of dark berry, pepper, and a hint of mint carry the wine to a satisfying close.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Spellbound Petite Sirah\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis wine drinks well at cellar temperature, around 60–65°F, and benefits from 15–20 minutes of air after opening. Its bold structure and dark fruit intensity make it a natural fit for several cocktail and mixed-wine applications. A \u003cstrong\u003eKalimotxo\u003c\/strong\u003e (red wine and cola) highlights the wine's dark berry sweetness against a bitter backbone. A \u003cstrong\u003eRed Wine Sangria\u003c\/strong\u003e loaded with blackberries, plums, and orange slices plays directly into the wine's natural flavor profile. A \u003cstrong\u003eMulled Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e preparation with cinnamon, clove, and star anise amplifies the existing spice notes beautifully.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeeknight steak dinners where you want a bold red without a premium price tag\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing someone to the Petite Sirah grape variety for the first time\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBringing a crowd-pleasing bottle to a barbecue or casual dinner party\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding a California red wine collection at the value tier\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Spellbound Petite Sirah taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It delivers concentrated black currant, blackberry, and plum flavors with accents of peppercorn, nutmeg, and a subtle herbal lift. The tannins are firm but well-managed, producing a dry, juicy finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Spellbound Petite Sirah compare to Syrah?\u003c\/strong\u003e Petite Sirah is not a smaller mutation of Syrah but rather a cross between Syrah and Peloursin, and it typically delivers a more robust and tannic profile than Syrah. Both share dark fruit and pepper characteristics, but Spellbound's Petite Sirah tends to be denser and more concentrated, with thicker texture and higher tannin levels.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Spellbound Petite Sirah good for beginners?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the winemaking specifically tames the grape's naturally aggressive tannins, making this a more approachable entry point into Petite Sirah than many peers. Its fruit-forward character and juicy finish are welcoming for drinkers new to bold reds.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Spellbound Petite Sirah made?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is produced in California under Folio Fine Wine Partners, where Robert Mondavi Jr. serves as President of Winemaking and Partner. The grapes are sourced from California vineyards and the wine is aged in American oak barrels.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Spellbound Petite Sirah?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled ribeye steak matches the wine's bold tannins and dark fruit weight. Braised short ribs mirror its concentrated, savory character. Smoked brisket complements the coffee and toast undertones. Sharp aged cheddar provides a salty counterpoint to the fruit intensity. Dark chocolate desserts echo the wine's roasted, berry-rich profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Spellbound Petite Sirah come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard release is available in a 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Spellbound Petite Sirah worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Wine Enthusiast's 90-point Best Buy designation specifically recognizes wines that deliver exceptional quality relative to their cost, placing this firmly in the high-value tier. For a California Petite Sirah with critical acclaim from two publications, it represents a strong entry-level investment in the category.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Spellbound Petite Sirah?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTwo respected wine publications scored this wine at 90 and 91 points in late 2024, with Wine Enthusiast going further to award it Best Buy status — a distinction reserved for wines that punch well above their price class. The deliberate focus on tannin management during production solves the biggest obstacle most consumers face with Petite Sirah: an overly aggressive, astringent structure that can make the grape unapproachable. American oak aging adds vanilla and toast complexity without overwhelming the fruit. For anyone looking to explore one of California's most underrated red varieties in a polished, affordable format, this bottle makes a compelling case.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Spellbound","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837332451497,"sku":"21191","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Spellbound-Petite-Sirah__61674.jpg?v=1730479720"},{"product_id":"spellbound-merlot","title":"Spellbound Merlot","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpellbound Merlot\u003c\/strong\u003e is a California Merlot-driven red blend bottled at 13.5% ABV in a standard 750ml format. The 2022 vintage earned 90 points from \u003cem\u003eWine Enthusiast\u003c\/em\u003e, and the 2017 vintage took Gold at the Sunset International Wine Competition — a track record that signals consistent quality from this Mondavi family label.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 13.5%  |  Origin: California, USA  |  Style: Merlot-Driven Red Blend  |  Producer: Folio Fine Wine Partners (Michael Mondavi Family)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpellbound falls under Folio Fine Wine Partners, the portfolio founded by Michael Mondavi — son of legendary Napa patriarch Robert Mondavi — now in partnership with French luxury group EPI since 2020. The blend runs 76% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 13% other proprietary red varieties, all sourced from vineyards across California's warmer inland regions. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel before the wine ages in a combination of French and American oak, with roughly 2% new barrels contributing subtle structure without overwhelming the fruit. The brand's guiding concept draws on the role cool, moonlit California nights play in slowing ripening and preserving natural acidity in the grapes — an idea rooted more in real diurnal temperature shifts than pure mysticism.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with ripe mixed berry pie and dark plum, then deepens into cocoa, cigar box, and a layer of worn leather. Swirling coaxes out a toasty undercurrent of vanilla and a hint of black olive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e On the palate, blackberry and black cherry arrive immediately, joined by plum at mid-palate that gives the wine a juicy, round feel. Mocha and vanilla from the oak aging emerge as the wine opens up, balanced by enough tannin grip to keep the sweetness of the fruit in check. The Cabernet Sauvignon component adds a subtle structural backbone that pure Merlot bottlings often lack.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium in length with a smooth, velvety texture that trails off into cedar, caramel, and a faint berry-cobbler warmth. The oak influence lingers gently without turning bitter or astringent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Spellbound Merlot\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePour it at cellar temperature — around 60–65°F — and let it breathe for 15 to 20 minutes; the aromatics noticeably expand with air. A classic \u003cstrong\u003eKalimotxo\u003c\/strong\u003e (red wine and cola over ice) works surprisingly well here, since the ripe fruit and soft tannins hold up against the sweetness. In a \u003cstrong\u003eRed Wine Sangria\u003c\/strong\u003e, the blackberry and plum notes mesh naturally with sliced stone fruit and citrus. For a warming autumn drink, use it in a \u003cstrong\u003eMulled Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e — the existing cocoa and vanilla spice notes amplify beautifully with cinnamon, clove, and orange peel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeeknight dinner pairing when you want something reliable and food-friendly\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing Merlot-curious drinkers to a well-made California example\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHosting casual gatherings where approachability matters more than showmanship\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding a mixed case of everyday California reds at a sensible price point\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Spellbound Merlot taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Spellbound Merlot leads with ripe blackberry and black cherry fruit, layered with cocoa, vanilla, and a subtle cedar note from French and American oak aging. The texture is soft and velvety, with a medium-length finish that ends on caramel and berry warmth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Spellbound Merlot compare to other California Merlots in its range?\u003c\/strong\u003e At 76% Merlot with 11% Cabernet Sauvignon and 13% other red varieties, it carries more structural complexity than many single-varietal California Merlots at a similar price tier. The 90-point \u003cem\u003eWine Enthusiast\u003c\/em\u003e score on the 2022 vintage places it among the stronger value performers in the category.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Spellbound Merlot good for beginners?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the ripe fruit profile, gentle tannins, and smooth oak influence make it very approachable for drinkers new to red wine. It doesn't demand decanting or extensive knowledge to enjoy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Spellbound Merlot made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Spellbound Merlot is produced in California under Folio Fine Wine Partners, the wine company founded by Michael Mondavi and now co-owned with French luxury group EPI. Grapes are sourced from vineyards across California's warmer growing regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Spellbound Merlot?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled lamb chops benefit from the wine's dark fruit and cedar notes. Mushroom risotto mirrors the earthy, savory undertones in the blend. Aged cheddar or Gouda amplify the caramel on the finish. Slow-braised short ribs echo the wine's richness, and a dark chocolate torte picks up on the cocoa and mocha aromatics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Spellbound Merlot come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard release is a 750ml bottle, which is the most widely available format.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Spellbound Merlot worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Spellbound Merlot positions as an everyday-drinking California red, and the 90-point \u003cem\u003eWine Enthusiast\u003c\/em\u003e rating and multiple competition medals suggest it consistently overdelivers for its value tier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Spellbound Merlot?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mondavi family name carries genuine weight in California winemaking, and Spellbound channels that expertise into an accessible, everyday format. The multi-varietal blend — rather than a straight Merlot — gives winemakers more levers to pull for balance and complexity vintage to vintage. A 90-point \u003cem\u003eWine Enthusiast\u003c\/em\u003e score on the 2022 release and a Gold medal at the Sunset International Wine Competition confirm that the quality holds up under critical scrutiny. For a California Merlot blend at this price tier, the combination of pedigree, consistency, and genuine drinkability is hard to beat.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Spellbound","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837481283753,"sku":"21192","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Spellbound-Merlot__19403.jpg?v=1730483868"},{"product_id":"spellbound-chardonnay","title":"Spellbound Chardonnay","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpellbound Chardonnay\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 100% Chardonnay from California aged in American and French oak, bottled at 13.5% ABV in a 750ml format. The 2019 vintage earned a 91-point critic score, and the 2018 vintage took Gold at the Sunset International Wine Competition — establishing this as a consistently recognized California white.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 13.5%  |  Origin: California, USA  |  Style: Oak-Aged Chardonnay  |  Winery: Spellbound Wines, Napa\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSpellbound Wines is cellared and bottled in Napa, California, under the direction of winemaker Rob Mondavi Jr. and partners. The Chardonnay draws fruit from both established and emerging California winegrowing regions, including Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Russian River Valley, Santa Barbara, and Lodi — a multi-appellation sourcing strategy that builds complexity and consistency across vintages. The wine undergoes aging in a combination of American oak, French oak, and stainless steel, a three-vessel approach that layers richness and preserves bright acidity in the final blend.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with ripe tropical fruit — pineapple and guava lead — followed by warm vanilla and a hint of butterscotch. A subtle toasted oak character rounds out the bouquet without overwhelming the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e On entry, lush tropical flavors of banana, kiwi, and ripe apple sweep across the palate. At mid-palate, a creamy texture emerges alongside classic crème brûlée richness, balanced by invigorating acidity that keeps the wine from feeling heavy. The medium body carries each flavor with precision, never tipping into excess.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is pleasant and lasting, with lingering vanilla and a bright citrus lift. A clean, balanced fade leaves the palate refreshed and ready for another sip.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Spellbound Chardonnay\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eServe lightly chilled at around 50–55°F to let the oak influence and tropical fruit come into full balance. This Chardonnay drinks beautifully on its own but also has the body and acidity for cocktail applications.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhite Wine Spritzer:\u003c\/strong\u003e The bright acidity and tropical notes pair naturally with soda water and a citrus twist for a refreshing warm-weather pour.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eChardonnay Sangria:\u003c\/strong\u003e The ripe pineapple and guava character makes this an ideal base for a tropical white sangria with fresh fruit and a splash of brandy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrench 75 (wine variation):\u003c\/strong\u003e Substitute for sparkling wine in a modified French 75 — the crème brûlée richness adds unexpected depth alongside gin and lemon.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeeknight dinner pairing with poultry or pasta dishes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHosting a wine night exploring California Chardonnay styles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting a white wine enthusiast who enjoys oak-forward expressions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBringing a crowd-pleasing bottle to a summer gathering or potluck\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Spellbound Chardonnay taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Spellbound Chardonnay features lush tropical fruit flavors — pineapple, guava, banana, and kiwi — layered with vanilla, butterscotch, and crème brûlée from oak aging. It has a medium body with bright acidity and a creamy, balanced texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Spellbound Chardonnay compare to J. Lohr Riverstone Chardonnay?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are multi-region California Chardonnays in a similar price tier, but Spellbound leans more heavily into tropical fruit and crème brûlée richness from its American and French oak regimen. J. Lohr Riverstone tends toward a more restrained stone-fruit profile with a focus on Monterey County fruit, making Spellbound the bolder of the two.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Spellbound Chardonnay good for sipping on its own?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — its medium body, balanced acidity, and approachable tropical-and-vanilla flavor profile make it an easy wine to enjoy on its own, particularly when served lightly chilled.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Spellbound Chardonnay made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Spellbound Chardonnay is cellared and bottled in Napa, California, by Spellbound Wines. The fruit is sourced from vineyards across multiple California appellations, including Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Russian River Valley, Santa Barbara, and Lodi.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Spellbound Chardonnay?\u003c\/strong\u003e Roasted chicken complements the wine's vanilla and oak notes. Lobster or shrimp in butter sauce echoes its creamy texture. Pasta with Alfredo sauce mirrors the rich, medium-bodied palate. Mild soft cheeses like brie highlight the tropical fruit. Grilled pork chops work well against the bright acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Spellbound Chardonnay come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Spellbound Chardonnay is widely available in the standard 750ml bottle format.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Spellbound Chardonnay worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Spellbound Chardonnay positions as an accessible, everyday California Chardonnay that punches above its price tier, particularly given its multi-region blending, dual-oak aging program, and consistent recognition at competitions like the Sunset International Wine Competition.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Spellbound Chardonnay?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat separates this wine from the crowded field of California Chardonnays is its multi-appellation sourcing across five distinct growing regions, giving winemaker Rob Mondavi Jr. a broad palette of fruit character to blend from vintage to vintage. The triple-vessel aging strategy — American oak for vanilla sweetness, French oak for structural finesse, and stainless steel for acidity retention — is more nuanced than what most wines at this tier attempt. A Gold medal at the Sunset International Wine Competition (2018 vintage) and a 91-point score for the 2019 vintage confirm that the approach delivers real results. For drinkers who want an oak-aged, tropically expressive Chardonnay without reaching into premium price territory, Spellbound earns its spot on the table.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Spellbound","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837536006313,"sku":"21190","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Spellbound-Chardonnay__49162.jpg?v=1730485679"},{"product_id":"spellbound-cabernet-sauvignon","title":"Spellbound Cabernet Sauvignon","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpellbound Cabernet Sauvignon\u003c\/strong\u003e is a California Cabernet Sauvignon aged in American and French oak, bottled at 13.5% ABV in a standard 750ml format. Produced under the direction of Rob Mondavi Jr. through Folio Fine Wine Partners, this wine earned a Silver Medal at the Los Angeles International Wine Competition for both the 2021 and 2017 vintages — a consistent showing that speaks to the reliability of the blend across multiple harvests.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 13.5%  |  Origin: California, USA  |  Style: Oak-Aged Cabernet Sauvignon  |  Producer: Folio Fine Wine Partners (Rob Mondavi Jr.)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSpellbound draws fruit from a patchwork of established and emerging California growing regions, including Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Russian River Valley, Santa Barbara, and Lodi. This multi-appellation sourcing strategy allows the winemaking team to select lots that emphasize specific characteristics — structure from hillside Sonoma fruit, ripeness from warmer Lodi vineyards — and blend them into a wine that aims for richness and balance rather than single-vineyard typicity. After fermentation, the wine matures in a combination of American and French oak barrels, which layer vanilla and cedar notes over the dark fruit core.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ripe blackberry and dark plum lead the nose, followed by cedar, tobacco leaf, and a subtle thread of toasted oak. A secondary layer of baking spice emerges as the wine opens in the glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is lush and fruit-forward, with concentrated cassis and ripe plum coating the palate. At mid-palate, vanilla and warm oak spice develop, adding structure without overwhelming the fruit. The mouthfeel is full and round, carrying good weight throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium in length, the finish features soft, well-integrated tannins that taper smoothly. Lingering notes of blackberry, light cedar, and a whisper of dark chocolate close out each sip cleanly.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Spellbound Cabernet\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt 13.5% ABV, this Cabernet drinks well at a slightly cool cellar temperature — around 60–65°F — either on its own or alongside food. A few minutes of breathing in the glass helps the oak and fruit find their balance. For cocktails and wine-based drinks, consider: a \u003cstrong\u003eCabernet Sangria\u003c\/strong\u003e built with dark stone fruits and cinnamon that amplify the wine's plum and spice notes; a \u003cstrong\u003eKalimotxo\u003c\/strong\u003e (red wine and cola), where the wine's lush fruit and soft tannins make a surprisingly smooth base; or a classic \u003cstrong\u003eMulled Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e in cooler months, where the cedar and baking spice aromatics harmonize naturally with traditional warming spices.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeeknight dinners alongside grilled red meats or pasta with red sauce\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing someone to California Cabernet Sauvignon without a steep price commitment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBringing a crowd-pleasing red to a casual dinner party\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding a by-the-glass house red for home entertaining\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Spellbound Cabernet taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Spellbound Cabernet Sauvignon delivers bold dark fruit — blackberry, plum, and cassis — layered with vanilla and cedar from oak aging, all carried on a full, round palate with soft tannins.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Spellbound Cabernet compare to J. Lohr Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are widely available California Cabernets in a similar value tier, but Spellbound sources fruit from multiple regions including Sonoma and Santa Barbara, while J. Lohr Seven Oaks draws primarily from Paso Robles. The result is that Spellbound tends toward a lusher, rounder profile, whereas Seven Oaks often shows more structured tannins and earthy undertones typical of its Paso Robles terroir.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Spellbound Cabernet good for beginners?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the soft tannins, approachable fruit-forward character, and moderate 13.5% ABV make it an accessible entry point into California Cabernet Sauvignon without sacrificing complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Spellbound Cabernet made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Spellbound Cabernet Sauvignon is produced in California by Folio Fine Wine Partners under the direction of Rob Mondavi Jr., using fruit sourced from multiple California appellations including Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Russian River Valley, Santa Barbara, and Lodi.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Spellbound Cabernet?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled ribeye steak, where the fat cuts through the tannins; herb-crusted lamb chops that echo the wine's cedar and spice; mushroom risotto, which complements the earthy oak notes; aged cheddar or Gouda, matching richness with richness; and slow-braised short ribs, whose deep savory flavors mirror the wine's dark fruit intensity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Spellbound Cabernet come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Spellbound Cabernet Sauvignon is widely available in the standard 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Spellbound Cabernet worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Spellbound Cabernet positions as an entry-level to mid-range California Cabernet, and its multi-region blending approach, oak aging program, and consistent medal-winning quality at the Los Angeles International Wine Competition deliver strong value within its price tier.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Spellbound Cabernet?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe real differentiator here is the multi-appellation blending strategy. Rather than relying on a single growing area, the winemaking team under Rob Mondavi Jr. pulls fruit from some of California's most respected and diverse regions — from the cool maritime influence of Santa Barbara to the warm inland character of Lodi — and balances them in a single bottling. That approach, combined with dual American and French oak maturation, delivers a layered Cabernet with more dimension than many competitors at the same level. Back-to-back Silver Medals at the Los Angeles International Wine Competition confirm the blend's consistency vintage over vintage, making it a dependable California red that rewards both casual drinking and thoughtful food pairing.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Spellbound","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837621235881,"sku":"21193","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Spellbound_Cabernet_Sauvignon__62290.jpg?v=1730488525"}],"url":"https:\/\/theliquorbarn.com\/collections\/spellbound.oembed","provider":"The Liquor Barn","version":"1.0","type":"link"}